2014 Kia Forte Koup

Compact - Coupe

    With a final score of 48%, the new Forte Koup is sure to win the hearts of some devoted fans.  Unfortunately Kia forgot to make this coupe appeal to more than its core fans.  With a bit more attitude and a drop in its ride height, the Koup could be a winner

        When it comes to following the crowd, Kia takes the cake.  It always seems to be able to follow the crowd and be able to make some decent money off of it.  Too bad they still don't have a halo model (except the Rio) that everyone can recognize as a Kia.  Maybe they should have thought a bit longer and harder when it came to the release of the new Koup.  For this little ride it would have been better if Kia had paid more attention to the sports car market than to the very small coupe market.  With a bit of work this little ride could be one of the best coupes out there.

        Next time Kia should lower the ride height and add in a ducted hood.  Add in some aftermarket inspired wheels and a notched side, and the Forte would have enough attitude to take on the FRS and BRZ.  This could improve the image of the Forte as a sports model, thus increasing the brand value of Kia. 

    Too bad they thought that the same old thing would work again for them.  Maybe next time the will get it right.

​Everett J.

OVERALL GRADE = C-

​Front End: C-
    Good: Evil headlights with a smooth hoodline
    Bad: One big mouth bass which should be thrown back
Rear End: C+
    Good: A bit of sport appeal with a race inspired rear exhaust and ports
    Bad: Smooth lines with too many curves
Side: C
    Good: Big "drop it like its hot" wheel flares
    Bad: Needs a lot more attitude to set it apart
Overall Appeal: C-
    Good: A Kia with a wild side
    Bad: An all too common outline and way too many curves

---

​AutoLooks Buy List Approved:     No
Recommended Tuner:                   Yes
Trend Setter:                                   No
Brand Value:                                   Same